The Drumcree dispute continues to frame tensions as Sinn Féin and People Before Profit representatives face police interviews over alleged breaches of a Parades Commission determination, with protests blocking Garvaghy Road in Portadown.

In a related development, the DUP agreed to block joint engagements with Michelle O’Neill amid ongoing tensions tied to the Drumcree parade dispute in Portadown, and a letter from Carla Lockhart frames the move as upholding the rule of law.

Police have questioned Michelle O’Neill, Sinn Féin president Mary-Lou McDonald, other party members, and Gerry Carroll in connection with potential breaches of the Parades Commission determination.

Lockhart’s five-page letter presents the stance as principled and law-abiding, urging action over appeasement in response to the continuing Drumcree-related tensions.

Carla Lockhart, a DUP MP, argues the party should remove Michelle O’Neill from the First Minister role, rejecting any middle-ground approach with Sinn Féin on Drumcree.

Lockhart asserts she resigned from a party office on principle and would not be controlled by others, calling for colleagues to speak out and take a stand.

She frames the removal of O’Neill as a move consistent with the DUP’s long-standing principles and the rule of law.

Thousands demonstrated in support of the Orange Order in Portadown after the parade route was approved for the first time in nearly 30 years, triggering nationalist protests.

Kimmins disclosed she received a police invitation to interview in the Drumcree investigation and said she will cooperate with the PSNI as required, though she did not specify attendance date.

Kimmins confirmed receipt of a police invitation for an interview in the Drumcree investigation and stated she will cooperate fully with the PSNI.

Kimmins reinforced her readiness to cooperate with the PSNI regarding the Drumcree investigation.

The Drumcree dispute and related Portadown protests have intensified political pressure and underscored broader governance concerns beyond the parade itself.